Author(s): Vaishali, Nisha Arya, Neeraj, Gunjan, Sakshi and Neeta

Abstract:
This
study evaluates the impact of repeated laundering (5, 10, and 15 cycles) on the
structural, mechanical, and comfort properties of cotton fabrics treated with
green-synthesised silver nanoparticles using Apamarga extract.
Pre-treated cotton fabrics were finished via the exhaust method and analysed
for geometrical (fabric count, weight, thickness), mechanical (tensile
strength, elongation), and comfort (bending length, moisture regain)
properties. Results revealed progressive degradation in structural integrity
with washing: fabric count decreased by 9.89% (from 45.5 to 41 ends/picks per
sq. inch), weight by 3.87% (129 to 124 g/m²), and thickness by 20.45% (0.44 to
0.35 mm) after 15 washes1. Mechanical properties also declined, with
tensile strength dropping by 7.92% (16.54 to 15.23 kg) and elongation by 10.17%
(19.76% to 17.75%). Conversely, comfort properties improved: bending
length decreased by 5.83% (4.63 to 4.36 cm), indicating enhanced softness,
while moisture regain increased by 16.27% (5.1% to 5.93%), reflecting better
hydrophilicity. These trends suggest that while repeated washing erodes
nanoparticle adhesion and structural durability, residual nanoparticles and
altered fibre morphology enhance comfort. The study underscores the viability
of plant-based nanofinishing for sustainable textiles, balancing functional
longevity with user comfort. Future research should prioritise optimising
nanoparticle fixation to mitigate mechanical losses while retaining comfort
benefits.